Backend Development

The Backend Development course is focused on teaching students how to build the server-side logic that powers websites and applications. Learners will gain expertise in working with Node.js, Express.js, and databases like MongoDB or MySQL to manage data and deliver dynamic content. The course covers APIs, authentication, security, and deployment practices. With hands-on projects, students will learn to connect the frontend with the backend, making complete web applications. By the end, learners will be prepared for backend or full-stack roles.

Detailed Course Outline

Module 1: Introduction to Backend Development

  • Role of backend in web development

  • Frontend vs backend vs full stack

  • Understanding servers, databases & APIs

  • Setting up the development environment (Node.js, VS Code, Git)

Module 2: Node.js Fundamentals

  • What is Node.js & why use it?

  • Node.js runtime & event-driven model

  • npm (Node Package Manager) basics

  • Writing the first Node.js server

Module 3: Express.js Framework

  • Introduction to Express.js

  • Routing & Middleware

  • Handling HTTP requests & responses

  • Creating RESTful APIs

Module 4: Working with Databases

  • Introduction to databases (SQL vs NoSQL)

  • MongoDB basics: collections & documents

  • MySQL basics: tables & queries

  • CRUD operations with databases

  • Connecting Node.js to databases

Module 5: Authentication & Security

  • User authentication (sessions, JWT)

  • Password hashing & secure storage

  • Handling sensitive data securely

  • Protecting APIs & preventing attacks (XSS, SQL injection)

Module 6: Advanced Backend Concepts

  • File uploads & handling

  • Email sending functionality

  • Working with third-party APIs

  • Real-time communication (Socket.io for chat apps)

Module 7: Version Control & Collaboration

  • Git & GitHub for backend projects

  • Branching, merging, pull requests

  • Collaborative workflow with teams

Module 8: Testing & Debugging

  • Debugging Node.js applications

  • Unit testing basics (Jest/Mocha)

  • Logging & error handling

Module 9: Deployment & Hosting

  • Hosting backend apps on Heroku, Render, or DigitalOcean

  • Environment variables & configurations

  • Integrating backend with frontend apps

Module 10: Capstone Project

  • Building a complete backend system (e.g., Blog API, E-commerce backend)

  • Connecting to a frontend interface

  • Final project presentation & portfolio publishing

After this course, learners will confidently create secure, scalable, and dynamic backend systems, opening opportunities for backend or full-stack developer jobs as well as freelancing projects.